When in Bear Country:

-Avoid conflict by practicing prevention.

-Be alert.

-Look for signs of recent bear activity. These include droppings, tracks, evidence of digging, and claw or bite marks on trees.

-Make your presence known by talking loudly, clapping, singing, or occasionally calling out. Some people prefer to wear bells. Whatever you do, be heard!

-Keep children close at hand and within sight.

-Photographing bears can be dangerous. Use a long-range telephoto lens.

-There is no guaranteed minimum safe distence from a bear- the further the better.

-Stay away from dead animals. Bears may attack to defend such food.

-It is best not to hike with dogs, as dogs can antagonize bears and cause an attack. An unleashed dog may bring a bear back to you.

-Never leave pets unattended.

Children should not:

-Run or play in areas with dense bush.

-Play unsupervised in bear country.

-Make animal-like sounds while hiking or playing.

-Approach bears, especially cubs.

-Be encouraged to pet, feed, or pose for a photo with bears, even if they appear tame.

If you encounter a bear at the roadside:

-Remain in your vehicle. Don’t get out, even for a ‘quick photo.’

-Keep your windows up.

-Do not impede the bear from crossing the road.

-If you park to view bears at a distance, leave your car well off the road to avoid accidents.

Your food and garbage:

-Odours attract bears. Reduce or eliminate odours from yourself, your camp, your clothes, and your vehicle.

-Don’t sleep in the same clothes you cook in.

-Store food so that bears cannot smell it or reach it. Don’t keep food in your tent- not even a chocolate bar.